Review

Darrol Barry
Suite for Four Trombones:

Coventry, , United Kingdom
Publisher: Warwick Music Publishers
Date of Publication: 2007
URL: http://www.warwickmusic.com

Primary Genre: Trombone Ensembles - 4 trombones

Suite contains four short movements whose material is presented in a straightforward fashion, almost predictably so; each movement is cast in ABA form. However, the absence of prolonged development is assertively overshadowed by rhythmic intrigue and contrapuntal intricacies that produce clean lines, accessible moods, and, for the performers, a rewarding playing experience. 

An opening fanfare is, like the second and fourth movements, idiomatic, tonal, and energetic.  
Snappy rhythmic exchanges, carefully constructed dynamics, and clearly delineated phrases create transparent musical offerings. The third movement’s hesitant harmonic clashes and a range up to e-flat2 provide a hazy diversion to the authoritative textures found in the rest of the piece. 

Darrol Barry is resident composer and arranger for the Royal Guard of Oman. He has written chamber works as well as pieces for band and orchestra. Suite is suitable for performance by a college level ensemble.  

-Joel Elias
California State University, Fresno; CSU Sacramento